Warm Up with Authentic Pozole: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Introduction

As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of pozole to warm you up. This traditional Mexican dish, with roots tracing back to Pre-Hispanic times, is a hearty soup featuring hominy (dried corn kernels that have been treated with an alkali), tender meat, and an array of flavorful toppings. Pozole not only satisfies the appetite but also brings friends and family together, making it a perfect dish for gatherings. In this recipe, we will guide you through making an authentic pork pozole rojo, rich in flavor and colors, that embodies the essence of Mexican comfort food.

Ingredient List

For the Pozole Base:

• 2 pounds of pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into large chunks
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and smashed
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• 2-3 dried guajillo chilies, seeds removed and soaked
• 2-3 dried ancho chilies, seeds removed and soaked
• 8 cups of water (enough to cover the meat)
• 2 cans (15 oz each) of hominy, drained and rinsed

For the Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced white onion
• Thinly sliced radishes
• Lime wedges
• Sliced avocados
• Crushed tortilla chips or tostadas (optional)
• Oregano (preferably Mexican)
• Chile powder or hot sauce (for those who like an extra kick)

Kitchen Supplies:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Blender or food processor
• Ladle
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (including cleaning and chopping)
• Cook Time: 2.5 – 3 hours (depending on the tenderness of the meat)
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours, including resting and garnishing

Servings

This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings, perfect for a family gathering or meal prep throughout the week!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Broth

1. Sear the Pork: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork chunks on all sides until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the broth.

2. Add Aromatics: Once the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the quartered onion and smashed garlic cloves, sautéing for a few minutes until they become fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients: Return the pork to the pot. Add 8 cups of water, salt, and the soaked guajillo and ancho chilies. Ensure you include any soaking liquid, as it adds flavor.

4. Simmer the Broth: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 2 hours or until the pork is tender enough to shred easily with a fork.

Step 2: Blend the Chilies

1. Make the Chili Sauce: While the pork is simmering, blend the soaked chilies with a small amount of the broth (about 1 cup). Blend until smooth. You may need to add more broth as needed to reach a smooth consistency. This chili sauce is crucial for the rich color and flavor of your pozole.

Step 3: Combine and Cook

1. Shred the Meat: Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and set it aside to cool for a few minutes. When cool enough to handle, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.

2. Strain the Broth (Optional): If desired, you can strain the broth to remove any solids and garlic pieces, creating a smoother soup. This step is optional, as leaving the aromatics adds additional flavor.

3. Add Ingredients: Stir the chili sauce back into the pot, then add the drained hominy and the shredded pork. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer Together: Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Serve the Pozole

1. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the pozole, adding salt as needed. If you like, sprinkle in some dried oregano to enhance the flavors.

2. Dish It Up: Ladle the pozole into individual bowls. Top each serving with generous amounts of chopped cilantro, diced onion, radish slices, avocado pieces, and a wedge of lime for squeezing. Don’t forget to offer crushed tortilla chips or tostadas on the side for added crunch!

Step 5: Enjoy!

Gather your loved ones around the table, serve hot, and enjoy this comforting dish as you share stories and laughter.

Tips and Suggestions

• Time-Saving: If you’re short on time, consider using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for the pork. It can significantly reduce cooking time while still achieving tender meat.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the pork with mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegetable broth. Add spices for richness, and remember to include hominy.
• Adjusting Spice Level: If you like your pozole spicier, consider adding a few chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.
• Storage: Pozole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can also be frozen for longer preservation. Reheat gradually on the stovetop.

Conclusion

Authentic pozole is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with comfort, warmth, and community. Through this detailed recipe, you’ve learned how to create a delicious, homemade pozole that is sure to impress your family and friends. As you savor each hearty spoonful, remember that it’s not just the flavors that make pozole special—it’s the time spent sharing it with those you love. Enjoy, and happy cooking!